If you’re searching for a nostalgic treat that wraps creamy peanut butter in a subtly sweet, melt-in-your-mouth candy, you will adore this Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe. This charming dessert brings together humble ingredients like mashed potatoes and powdered sugar to create a delectably soft candy that’s both simple and unforgettable. Perfect for sharing at family gatherings or enjoying as a comforting homemade sweet, this recipe offers a delightful way to experience a true classic that feels like a warm hug from the past.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a special role in balancing rich, creamy, and sweet flavors while building a smooth, pliable texture perfect for rolling and slicing.
- 1 medium potato, peeled and sliced: The foundation that provides moisture and softness without adding a strong potato flavor.
- 2 tablespoons real butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the candy base.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the overall flavor by balancing sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, comforting aroma and depth of flavor.
- 2 pounds powdered sugar: The key sweetener that helps the candy set and creates that classic candy texture, plus extra for rolling out the candy so it doesn’t stick.
- 1 jar creamy peanut butter (16 ounces): The luscious, slightly salty filling that pairs perfectly with the sweet candy wrap.
How to Make Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Prepare the Potato
Start by peeling and slicing your potato into manageable pieces, then boil them in water until they are tender enough to mash easily. This step is crucial because the potato must be fully cooked to create the smooth, soft consistency necessary for the candy’s base. Once tender, drain carefully to avoid excess water which could make mixing tricky.
Step 2: Mash with Butter, Vanilla, and Salt
While your potato is still warm, mash it thoroughly with butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This blend brings a luscious creaminess and balanced flavor to your candy foundation, setting the stage for sweetness. Make sure to get rid of any lumps to keep the texture velvety and smooth.
Step 3: Incorporate Powdered Sugar Gradually
Next, add your powdered sugar little by little while mixing on low speed. This gradual process is essential because the sugar absorbs moisture from the potato mixture, thickening it until it becomes a pliable, slightly sticky dough that’s just right for shaping. Resist the urge to dump all the sugar in at once or your mixture may become too dry or gritty.
Step 4: Roll Out the Candy Base
Sprinkle a clean surface generously with powdered sugar and roll out your candy dough to a uniform 1/4 inch thickness. This step requires a bit of patience and gentle pressure to avoid tearing, but rolling it out evenly ensures your final roll will slice beautifully.
Step 5: Spread Peanut Butter and Roll Up
Smooth a thin layer of creamy peanut butter evenly over your rolled-out candy, taking care to leave a small border along the edges. The peanut butter adds that signature rich, salty contrast. Carefully roll the candy up like a jelly roll, starting from one edge, then place it in the freezer briefly to firm up for easier slicing.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, slice your candy roll into bite-sized pieces. Each slice reveals a gorgeous swirl of sweet potato candy and savory peanut butter that looks almost as good as it tastes!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar over your sliced candies adds a pretty finish and subtle extra sweetness. For an extra festive touch, consider sprinkling finely chopped peanuts or a pinch of cinnamon on top to complement the peanut butter flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
This candy shines as a standalone treat, but pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or classic black tea brings out its flavors even more. For holiday occasions, serve alongside spiced cider or a cold glass of milk to satisfy every craving.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe on a vintage platter or wrap individual slices in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming gift. You can also layer slices in a decorative tin lined with wax paper if you plan to share with friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover potato candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Make sure it is kept away from heat and humidity to maintain its soft yet firm texture without becoming sticky or overly dry.
Freezing
You can freeze the candy slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving to enjoy that perfect candy texture.
Reheating
Since this candy is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a softer bite, simply let frozen slices sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
While some may experiment with sweet potatoes, the traditional recipe calls for a regular white or russet potato. Sweet potatoes add extra sweetness and moisture, which can change the texture and may require adjusting powdered sugar quantities.
Is it necessary to use creamy peanut butter?
Creamy peanut butter spreads more easily and blends smoothly with the candy base, making it ideal. Chunky peanut butter can be used for added texture, but it may affect rolling and slicing.
How do I prevent the candy from sticking while rolling?
Using plenty of powdered sugar on your work surface and rolling pin helps prevent sticking. If the dough sticks, sprinkle more powdered sugar gradually without over-drying the candy.
Can I substitute the peanut butter with another filling?
Absolutely! While peanut butter is classic, alternatives like Nutella, almond butter, or even fruit preserves can be used to create different but delicious versions of this candy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful treat for those avoiding gluten.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe is such a charming, heartwarming dessert that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor. If you’ve never tried making candy with mashed potatoes, now is the perfect time to surprise yourself and your loved ones with this old-school sweet treat. It’s easy to make, delightful to eat, and a wonderful way to connect with a timeless dessert tradition.
Print
Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Old Fashioned Potato Candy is a nostalgic treat made with mashed potatoes, powdered sugar, and creamy peanut butter. This simple no-bake recipe yields a sweet, creamy candy roll that combines the subtle flavor of potatoes with rich peanut butter, perfect for a homemade confection that is both unique and delicious.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 1 medium potato, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons real butter
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Candy Mixture
- 2 pounds powdered sugar (more for rolling out candy)
Filling
- 1 jar creamy peanut butter (16 ounces, may not use all)
Instructions
- Cook the Potato: Peel and slice the potato into manageable pieces. Place in a small pan of water and cook over medium heat until the potato is very tender. Drain the water completely.
- Mash the Potato Mixture: Mash the cooked potato together with butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until completely smooth and free of lumps for a creamy base.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the potato mixture while mixing on low speed, continuing until the mixture becomes thick, slightly sticky, and forms a dough-like consistency.
- Roll Out Candy Dough: Sprinkle powdered sugar on a clean flat surface and roll out the candy dough to about 1/4 inch thickness, making it large enough for spreading the peanut butter layer.
- Spread Peanut Butter: Evenly spread a thin layer of creamy peanut butter over the rolled-out candy dough, leaving a small border around the edges to help seal the roll.
- Form the Candy Roll: Carefully roll the peanut butter-covered candy dough into a tight log, ensuring it holds together well.
- Chill and Slice: Place the roll in the freezer to chill until firm, then slice into 24 pieces to serve.
Notes
- Use peeled potato to avoid lumps and unwanted texture.
- Adjust the amount of peanut butter according to preference; you may not need the entire jar.
- For easier rolling, dust your surface generously with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- The candy is best served chilled and can be stored wrapped in the refrigerator.
- This candy contains no baking or frying; it relies on the natural starch of the potato for texture.
